M*A*S*H-themed Red Cross Bash a hit

CORPUS CHRISTI - A jeep marked the entrance to the party tent at this year's Red Cross Bash on March 7. The M*A*S*H theme was evident in every detail, including guests receiving Army caps and dog tags upon arrival to the Congressman Solomon P. Ortiz International Center.

The evening began with a V.I.P. meet and greet for musical guest Jack Ingram. Mike Hernandez with the host committee passionately explained that in addition to its natural disaster relief, Red Cross steps in with essentials after fire devastates a home.

While waiting for the guest of honor to arrive, Evon Kelly discussed her upcoming trip to the Big Apple with daughter Casi, and Belinda Hernandez told us of her garage sale. Cecil Johnson asked Bill Kelly about his 1966 Thunderbird and hinted that Bill should let him drive it someday. A freighter passed so close to the window that after we realized we weren't going to crash, we waved to those onboard.

Once Jack Ingram arrived, he posed for pictures and signed autographs. Entertainment chairwoman Kelley Knight presented him with an appreciation gift before the VIPs joined the other guests.

Palm trees and camouflage netting clung to the walls of the main room. A parachute hung from the ceiling and army blankets covered the silent auction tables. Centerpieces of helmets and boots were used to hold springerii and baby's breath. Historic Red Cross literature added to the ambiance. Rosie's Bar, USO Show, Swamp and Latrine were marked.

Most guests were dressed comfortably in scrubs and camo, however, Angel Chapa dressed as Klinger. I did a doubletake when Patti Biro walked past me in a showercap and towel. At first I thought she was running late, but then it hit me, she was Margaret Houlihan from the shower scene. John and Tala Meyer later told me Patti had been planning this costume since her first Bash four years ago. Well worth the wait.

The evening officially began as our Fire Department's Honor Guard Pipe and Drum Corps played each of the military hymns.

"Attention All Personnel" announced the chow line and guests ate while Brent Chesney conducted the live auction. Dr. Roxanne Robertson donated an Invisalign system which took high bid at $3,200. Hunting and fishing packages got the men's attention, while the women got excited at the thought of a weekend at the Austin Four Seasons. The crowd cheered as Jack Ingram began the USO show on time, giving an outstanding performance.

The silent auction spanned the length of the room. I was tempted to bid on the Chocolate Fountain Fantasy, but didn't think plunging face first into the fountain was what the donor had in mind. I settled on the Y membership.

Police Chief Bryan Smith walked up to the table with mother-to-be Jessica Davila-Burnett. I quickly pointed out to him he had the wrong pregnant lady. The chief laughed and hugged his wife, Patricia, who told us "Little Chief" wasn't due until early July.

When she's not practicing family law, Corpus Christi resident Kelly Koch Gilmore attends area parties and social events. The Caller-Times contributor will be 'Right There' throughout the social season. Contact her at kellykochgilmore@yahoo.com